Chad’s ruling Patriotic Salvation Movement (MPS) won 45 of 46 Senate seats in the country’s first Senate election, cementing President Mahamat Idriss Deby’s authority. One seat went to the opposition. Allegations of election irregularities were raised, particularly regarding the Moundou region. Following significant military policy changes, Chad’s government has distanced itself from France amid a growing trend in West and Central Africa.
In the inaugural Senate election in Chad, the ruling Patriotic Salvation Movement (MPS) party secured 45 of the 46 contested seats, according to provisional results. This election strengthens President Mahamat Idriss Deby’s hold on power, following his ascension in 2021 after the death of his predecessor, Idriss Deby Itno. Deby previously won a presidential election in May, garnering 61% of the votes amid allegations of electoral fraud from losing candidates.
The recent legislative election in December, which was largely boycotted by opposition parties, resulted in the MPS obtaining a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly. In the Senate election, the only other seat was won by the National Rally of Chadian Democrats (RNDT), led by former Prime Minister Albert Pahimi Padacke, who has now positioned himself as the singular opposition senator.
Padacke has raised concerns regarding irregularities in the election process, specifically in Moundou, Chad’s second-largest city. The Senate will consist of 46 indirectly elected senators, chosen by local councillors, along with an additional 23 appointed by the President, with all senators serving six-year renewable terms.
Since President Deby’s election, Chad, a crucial ally in the fight against Islamic extremism in the Sahel, has made significant changes to its military alliances. The country terminated its defense agreement with France, resulting in the withdrawal of French forces, and has contemplated withdrawing from a multinational security force operating around Lake Chad, following a trend observed in other West and Central African nations that have similarly distanced themselves from French military presence.
In summary, Chad’s recent Senate election results reflect a consolidation of power by President Mahamat Idriss Deby and his party, the MPS. The election process has faced scrutiny from opposition factions, particularly concerning allegations of irregularities. Additionally, Chad’s shifting military alliances illustrate a broader regional trend away from former colonial powers and towards alternative partnerships.
Original Source: www.timeslive.co.za
